Overview of the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)
Family reunification has always been a cornerstone of Canada’s immigration system, helping Canadian citizens and permanent residents bring their loved ones to live with them. The Parents and Grandparents (PGP) Program is one such initiative, allowing individuals to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency in Canada.
For 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced that up to 10,000 complete applications will be accepted under the PGP Program. This marks another effort by the Canadian government to facilitate family reunification while managing application backlogs efficiently.
How the 2025 PGP Program Works
Unlike some previous years where new interest to sponsor forms were accepted, IRCC has decided to continue selecting potential sponsors from the existing pool of submissions from 2020. This means that only those who submitted their interest to sponsor in 2020 and have not yet been invited may receive an invitation to apply (ITA). This approach was also used for the intakes from 2020 to 2024.
If you did not submit an interest to sponsor form in 2020, you will not be eligible for this year’s draw. However, alternative options, such as the Super Visa, remain available.
Application Process for PGP 2025
For those who receive an invitation to apply, the next steps are crucial. Below is an outline of the process:
- Receive the Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- IRCC will randomly select and invite potential sponsors from the 2020 pool.
- Invitations will be sent via email, so it’s essential to check your inbox regularly.
- Submit the Sponsorship and PR Application
- Once invited, applicants must complete and submit their sponsorship and permanent residence applications within the given deadline.
- Required documents include proof of financial ability, identity documents, and relationship evidence.
- Processing and Approval
- Applications will be reviewed for completeness and eligibility.
- Medical, criminal, and background checks will be conducted for the sponsored parents or grandparents.
- Final Decision and PR Issuance
- If approved, parents or grandparents will receive their permanent resident status, allowing them to live, work, and access healthcare in Canada.
Processing Times for PGP Applications
As of February 5, 2025, IRCC has provided estimated processing times for PGP applications:
- Outside Quebec: Approximately 24 months
- Quebec-bound applicants: Approximately 48 months due to additional processing requirements by the Quebec government.
Since demand for family sponsorship remains high, IRCC carefully balances the number of applications processed with available spots to manage wait times effectively.
Super Visa: An Alternative for Family Reunification
If you did not submit an interest to sponsor form in 2020 or are not selected in the draw, the Super Visa remains a great option for bringing your parents and grandparents to Canada.
Benefits of the Super Visa:
- Allows parents and grandparents to visit for up to 5 years per stay.
- Multiple entries for up to 10 years.
- No need to reapply for a visitor visa frequently.
- Health insurance requirements have been eased recently to make it more accessible.
While this does not provide permanent residency, it is an excellent way to keep families together for extended periods.
Financial Requirements for Sponsoring Under PGP
To sponsor your parents or grandparents, you must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) requirement. This is assessed based on your income for the last three tax years. Sponsors must provide proof of income via Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Notices of Assessment.
The financial requirements vary based on family size and are adjusted yearly. To check the latest income thresholds, visit www.guidemeimmigration.com
Why IRCC is Not Accepting New Interest to Sponsor Forms in 2025
The decision to select applicants from the 2020 pool rather than accepting new applications is due to multiple factors:
- High backlog: There are still many applications from previous years awaiting processing.
- Immigration targets adjustments: Due to changes in the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, IRCC is adjusting the number of new applications to balance wait times and intake numbers.
- Processing efficiency: By drawing from an existing pool, IRCC can streamline the selection process and avoid an overwhelming number of new applications.
While this approach helps manage backlogs, it does limit opportunities for families who did not apply in 2020.
What to Expect in the Coming Months
IRCC has stated that more details regarding the 2025 PGP intake will be announced soon. This includes:
- The exact date when invitations will be sent out.
- Additional guidance for selected applicants.
- Updates on future sponsorship opportunities.
To stay updated, regularly check www.guidemeimmigration.com for the latest immigration news and expert guidance.
How We Can Help
If you or your family are looking for expert assistance with immigration applications, our team at Guide Me Immigration is here to help. We provide:
✔ Expert guidance on PGP applications and eligibility.
✔ Assistance with Super Visa applications.
✔ Legal document preparation and financial assessment.
✔ Updates on future sponsorship programs.
📍 Visit Us:
📌 Saskatoon: 535 20th St W, Unit-C, Saskatoon, SK S7M 0X6
📌 Regina: Unit 170 – 2410 Dewdney Ave, Regina, SK S4R 1H6
📌 Dhaka: Apt-2D, H-396, R-6 Avenue 3, Mirpur DOHS, Dhaka 1216
✉ Email: info@guidemeimmigration.com
📞 Call: +1 (306) 700 7440
🌐 Website: www.guidemeimmigration.com
Other Website:www.go-get.ca
Conclusion
The 2025 Parents and Grandparents Program remains a critical pathway for family reunification in Canada. While no new applications will be accepted this year, those who applied in 2020 still have a chance to be invited. For others, the Super Visa is a great alternative to keep families together.
For the latest updates, professional assistance, and personalized guidance, contact us today! Keeping families together is our priority, and we are committed to helping you navigate your immigration journey successfully.
